Optional Post on Bauman

Bauman uses the term “liquid modernity” to characterize the modern era. To what extent, does Bauman believe and do you believe that these conditions are associated with greater freedom or greater anxiety?

For April 25th

How have globalization and the decline of traditional forms of state sovereignty influenced the character of identity based movements? What implications does this have for the reconfiguration of citizenship across nation-state borders?

post for April 13th

It is often assumed that religion, particularly Islam, oppresses women. As a result we tend to see veiled, secluded women as lacking agency and to believe that secular states which prohibit the public display of religious observance best protect women’s interests. How do the readings complicate these assumptions about Muslim women and secular state policies?

April 6th

The student body at AmherstCollege has become increasingly diverse with respect to gender, race, nationality and class. How would you evaluate the continuous and sometimes contentious process associated with changes in the college’s admissions policy?

Question for April 4th

Craig Jeffrey describes boredom and waiting as core features of the lives of middle class urban youth in northern India. How does “time pass” both circumscribe and create the basis for their identities and activism?